London (TAN): Train travel is about to get chattier. United Kingdom-based train operator Virgin Trains has launched new ‘Chat Carriages’ on its Pendolino trains so that passengers can engage in conversations with their fellow riders. Coach C on several Pendolino services will now act as the ‘Chat Carriage’.
In a bid to get people communicate with each other while travelling on public transport, British public service broadcaster British Broadcasting Television (BBC) started an initiative – Crossing Divides on the Move Day. The ‘Chat Carriage’ concept was started to support this effort.
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Community Manager at Virgin Trains Jo Buckley said: “All too often we tend to disappear into our own bubble when travelling by public transport. We think there’s still a place for a smile and a chat. Research shows it can have a really positive impact on well-being and can brighten someone’s day.”
“Striking up a conversation with a stranger shouldn’t be so daunting. Through our charity partnership with Rethink Mental Illness and our work with the Samaritans we know how important talking is, so we were delighted to support Crossing Divides On the Move day,” she added.
Virgin Trains tried to encourage strangers to strike up a conversation and keep it going. Passengers who bought a hot drink on select Virgin Trains services were given a free second drink to share it with a co-passenger while talking to them.
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“The day provides an opportunity for those who want to take part, to reach out to fellow passengers. We are delighted to be working with companies like Virgin Trains who are encouraging their passengers to have conversations,” said Emily Kasriel, Head of Editorial Partnerships and Special Projects at BBC World Service Group.
She added: “By coming into contact with others, we may begin to understand other people’s worlds and help create a greater sense of belonging. Those who think there is nothing worse than talking to strangers and relish their ‘me time’ on their journey will be relieved to hear that any activity is entirely voluntary.”
